The Next Iron Chef: Who will climb the ranks to culinary greatness? Sundays at 9pm/8c

The Cast

Traci Des Jardins
Eliminated Week 1

Age: 41

From: Firebaugh, Calif.

Current hometown: San Francisco

Job: Executive Chef & Co-Owner – Jardinière, Mijita and Acme Chophouse

Marital status: I am seeing someone

Children: Yes – I have a wonderful son who is 7 – Eli.

Read Traci's full bio

Q&A with FoodNetwork.com

Why should you be the next Iron Chef?
Because I am a fierce competitor, have a cool head and grace under fire.

You have an impressive resume, but so do your competitors. What makes you stand out from the others?
I think experience and years in the business make me stand out from the others.

What is your culinary point-of-view or cuisine you're known for?
I have three different restaurants, each with their own unique style, but I am most known for my French influenced California cuisine.

What is your signature ingredient?
There is not one in particular, but rather the use of sustainable, seasonal, market fresh ingredients.

What ingredient do you avoid?
Brains

What is your favorite meal?
Really exceptional sushi

What is your favorite restaurant?
Zuni Cafe

What is your favorite food destination?
Spain

Who are your culinary inspirations?
Farmers, growers, ranchers, fisherman

What's your alternative dream job?
I think I would have been very fulfilled as a doctor.

What's your culinary secret weapon?
There are no secrets. Maybe a cool head and ability to perform under pressure.

Are you friends with any of the other contestants, or have any of you worked together before?
Yes – Chris Cosentino worked for me over 10 years ago.